Ordering in

“So far, in the field of quality ingredients, we haven’t seen much impact from the current global situation. Yes, for a short period of time the high freight costs came down a little, but since oil prices are on the rise again, it’s pretty much the same as usual,” he says.

“We use many high-priced items, which of course have big influence — 75% of our food items are imported from Italy; but after two years of operations our guests understand the superior quality of these products and there is still a real demand for them.”

Holiday Inn’s Youssef agrees that food prices have been “up and down” during the downturn, but says these fluctuations appear to have “little effect” in the long run.

However Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort and Spa executive chef Arturo Cristiane says there are still deals to be found.

“Some food products coming from different countries are priced high, but others remain the same or can even be a great bargain,” he insists.

Coral’s Miraton agrees that certain products have been impacted, noting that prices have come down “for dry items in particular, such as vegetables, rice and pasta”.

“Meat is one ingredient that has remained expensive, but at least the price is stable,” he added.

Of course for any outlet, the key to maintaining consistent and manageable food costs is to build solid supplier relationships.

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Holiday Inn’s Youssef notes: “I have worked very hard during my eight years in the UAE; nowadays I know and have good relationships with the right people who can give me special deals if something good comes up.”

But Shangri-La’s Robinson points out hotel chains have a major advantage when it comes to sway with suppliers. 

“Shangri-La buys for three or four hotels so we are buying in bigger quantities than some other venues, meaning we have some purchasing power,” he says.

Robinson adds that buyers should remember “the pinch is being felt in the supply chain as much as with outlets”.

“Now we are challenging them to give us a better price — and we are actually paying less for our stuff than last year,” he reveals. “At the end of the day, they need business as well.

“But ultimately it’s all about buying sensibly and carefully.”

Al Fujairah’s Cristiane points out that buying seasonal items is a good way to find quality produce at affordable prices.

“I always look for quality, but to minimise the cost or keep on line I try to buy the right product at the right price and at the right time,” he notes.